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A Week-long Family Friendly Trip to Sri Lanka

Tuesday, February 20: Arrival in Colombo

Welcome to Sri Lanka! Start your adventure by arriving in Colombo, the capital city. In the morning, explore the vibrant Pettah Market, known for its bustling atmosphere and diverse array of goods. In the afternoon, visit the Colombo National Museum, where you can delve into Sri Lanka's rich history and culture. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along Galle Face Green, a beautiful promenade offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

  • Pettah Market: Prices vary, 3-4 hours
  • Colombo National Museum: Entrance fee: $5 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Galle Face Green: Free, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, February 21: Sigiriya

Embark on a journey to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the morning, climb the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, and witness the breathtaking views from the top. Afterward, visit the nearby Pidurangala Rock, offering a unique perspective of Sigiriya. In the evening, explore the picturesque village of Habarana and take a peaceful boat ride on Habarana Lake.

  • Sigiriya Rock: Entrance fee: $30 per person, 3-4 hours
  • Pidurangala Rock: Entrance fee: $10 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Habarana Lake: Boat ride: $10 per person, 1-2 hours
Thursday, February 22: Kandy

Travel to the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy. Start your day by visiting the Temple of the Tooth, a sacred Buddhist site believed to house a tooth relic of Lord Buddha. In the afternoon, explore the beautifully landscaped Royal Botanic Gardens, home to a wide variety of plant species. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance, showcasing the vibrant local culture.

  • Temple of the Tooth: Entrance fee: $10 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Royal Botanic Gardens: Entrance fee: $10 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Kandyan Dance Performance: Ticket price: $15 per person, 1-2 hours
Friday, February 23: Nuwara Eliya

Head to Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England" due to its colonial architecture and cool climate. Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Horton Plains National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. In the afternoon, explore the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, famous for its beautiful flower displays. Don't forget to indulge in a cup of delicious Ceylon tea, as Nuwara Eliya is renowned for its tea plantations.

  • Horton Plains National Park: Entrance fee: $25 per person, 4-5 hours
  • Hakgala Botanical Gardens: Entrance fee: $10 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Tea Plantation Visit: Prices vary, 1-2 hours
Saturday, February 24: Ella

Make your way to the charming town of Ella, nestled amidst the breathtaking hill country. Start your day with a hike to Little Adam's Peak, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and tea plantations. In the afternoon, visit the famous Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural marvel. In the evening, explore Ella's lively market and try some local street food.

  • Little Adam's Peak: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Nine Arch Bridge: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Ella Market: Prices vary, 1-2 hours
Sunday, February 25: Yala National Park

Embark on an exciting safari adventure in Yala National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and natural beauty. In the morning, take a jeep safari and spot leopards, elephants, and many exotic bird species. After the safari, visit the nearby Kataragama Temple, an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims. In the evening, relax on the pristine beaches of Yala and enjoy the stunning sunset.

  • Yala National Park Safari: Prices vary, 6-7 hours
  • Kataragama Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Yala Beaches: Free, relaxation time
Monday, February 26: Galle

Conclude your trip in the historic city of Galle. In the morning, explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a fortified city with colonial-era buildings, charming boutiques, and art galleries. Walk along the fort walls and enjoy the scenic views of the Indian Ocean. In the afternoon, visit the enchanting Jungle Beach for some relaxation and snorkeling. Spend your last evening in Sri Lanka strolling through the vibrant streets of Galle and sampling local delicacies.

  • Galle Fort: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Jungle Beach: Free, relaxation time
  • Exploring Galle: Prices vary, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can observe and even feed baby elephants. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Lunuganga Estate, the former residence of renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. Here, you can explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and gain insight into Bawa's architectural vision.

For more hotel and flight options, check out Kayak.

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